Patriots 2008 off season (1 Viewer)

[David Yudkin]

I would say heck for cheap, go for it, if they didnt just deal with cameragate. Now, image control needs to be re-established again.No Pacman for me.

Just to clarify. I'm against Pacman Jones not from an image standpoint but just for the pure fact that he is a bad guy and would be bad for the team. I believe in talent first but chemistry second. It is not good having a guy like Pacman on your team.

Pat, I couldnt agree more. And I'll say this with absolute certainty. Bob Kraft may trust his lead men in personnel, scouting and management as much as any owner in the league. But he would without a doubt VETO a Pacman Jones acquisition. After what he's seen his team go thru this past year. That guy will never in a million years play for New England because Mr. Kraft would never allow it. Pretty much end of story.

from boston.comPATS WON'T PURSUE PACMAN: When Pacman Jones's agent said last week that Jones would be interested in joining the Patriots, the words were construed by some as the team having interest in Jones. That is not the case. According to a league source, the Patriots will not pursue Jones.

I've been saying this for a week, but I guess that my word isn't worth much these days . . .

 

[twitch]

Nothing quite like hearing about big Richard Seymour getting ready to actually put in some real offseason work instead of re-hab. Good for him. Good for us. Good for the Pats. I love that these guys dont spend their offseasons in Florida, LA or Arizona.

Seymour Getting Back to Work

 

[Boston]

Looks like Haggans signed with the Cardinals. A lot of Patriot fans (myself included) saw him as a potential target. It appears the Pats had zero interest in him and the fact he only signed a year deal only reinforces that.

http://www.azcentral.com/sports/cardinals/.../0326cards.html

The Pats must have a plan in place at LB...but what it is is anyone's guess. They are a Vrabel or Thomas injury from having a total debacle at a position that is incredibly important to the success of their D. Does that mean they are counting on Pierre Woods? Will this be the year they finally use a #1 on LB? Could they totally surprise everyone and go to a 4-3? Something's gotta give here eventually and it will be very interesting to see how this all plays out.

 

[nerangers]

anyone hear that Ben Watson had an operation on his foot? Thought I heard it on Sirius driving home tonight, but the signal was breaking up (red light stuck under a bridge! lol)

 

[nerangers]

anyone hear that Ben Watson had an operation on his foot? Thought I heard it on Sirius driving home tonight, but the signal was breaking up (red light stuck under a bridge! lol)

Found it on boston.com....Posted by Mike Reiss, Globe Staff March 27, 2008 10:54 PM Patriots tight end Benjamin Watson had surgery on his left ankle earlier this month, according to a league source. Watson had injured the ankle in a Week 6 game at Dallas when safety Roy Williams tackled him from behind.While Watson missed the ensuing two games, he returned to play in the Patriots' next five contests. Watson was hurt again Dec. 9 against the Steelers, and missed games against the Jets (Dec. 16) and Dolphins (Dec. 23) before suiting up in the season finale.In all, Watson played in 12 regular-season games (9 starts), finishing with 36 receptions for 389 yards and six touchdowns. He also suited up for all three postseason contests.The next question will be how the surgery affects Watson's level of participation in the team's offseason program, which includes passing camps and the lone full-team minicamp (June 6-8). The Patriots are scheduled to open training camp in late July (the exact date has not been announced).

 

[Bri]

Why did Watson wait so long to have his surgery?

How's Thomas doing after missing last year on IR?

They've gotta draft or sign a TE now, don't they?

 

[David Yudkin]

Why did Watson wait so long to have his surgery?How's Thomas doing after missing last year on IR? They've gotta draft or sign a TE now, don't they?

1) I'm guessing that it was your typical "let's hold off on surgery to see if it gets better on it's own" situation. "Earlier in the month" could still have been a month after the SB.2) Like Chad Jackson, they hope Thomas can be a contributor but can't bank on it.3) They were prepping to take a TE anyway and I don't think this impacts that much other than maybe they look a round sooner. I've been told that TE was on the draft day "to do" list even before this came up. Reviewing the timing, that may be why they were actively considering TEs, as I hears about NE drafting a TE probably 2 weeks ago.

 

[David Yudkin]

The Pats are flying in Darren McFadden for a visit, but I would be 1) surprised if he were there at the #7 pick and 2) SHOCKED if the Pats actually drafted him. If DMac is on the board, I suspect they will have trade partners already lined up (and that goes for some of the other blue chip prospects as well).

 

[Megalomaniac]

Pats sign Victor HobsonPosted by Mike Reiss, Globe Staff April 7, 2008 03:15 PM The Patriots have signed free-agent linebacker Victor Hobson to a one-year deal today, a league source confirmed. The signing was first reported by the NFL Network's Adam Schefter.The 6-foot, 252-pound Hobson enters his sixth NFL season. He played the first five years of his career with the Jets.Hobson, 28, played outside linebacker in the Jets' 3-4 alignment the last two years. While Hobson has not played inside, he could potentially see some work there.

Groves on the radarPosted by Mike Reiss, Globe Staff April 7, 2008 08:55 AM The Patriots are scheduled to host DE/OLB Quentin Groves on a pre-draft visit at Gillette Stadium, the Pittsburgh Tribune-Review reports.The Tribune-Review piece was published today, on the day Groves is scheduled to visit the Steelers.At 6-foot-3, 259 pounds, Groves would project to outside linebacker in the Patriots' 3-4 alignment. He is also the type of player who would be part of sub packages, potentially rushing out of a two-point stance. In other schemes, such as the Colts' 4-3 alignment, Groves would be more of a pure lineman on early downs.Groves is projected as a first-round draft choice.In addition to Groves, the Patriots are hosting DE/LB Darrell Robertson and CB Antoine Cason today.

 

[nerangers]

Was working on my mock draft...and the 31st pick forfeited by the Pats. At that pick the Pats could have taken a player like LB Dan Connor. For those that felt it was no big deal for the Patriots to lose that pick, it was. Without trading the pick, I went CB at the position. I still think they will try to trade back with the Saints or the Broncos (10-12 range).

Anyone think the Patriots and the 49ers could trade again? Some of the players the Pats have been bringing in lately are predicted as late first rounders.

 

[David Yudkin]

Rumor of the day yesterday was that Rosy Colvin had a ruptured Achilles which would explain why he was gone and no one else has given him a call.

 

[Boston]

Was working on my mock draft...and the 31st pick forfeited by the Pats. At that pick the Pats could have taken a player like LB Dan Connor. For those that felt it was no big deal for the Patriots to lose that pick, it was. Without trading the pick, I went CB at the position. I still think they will try to trade back with the Saints or the Broncos (10-12 range).Anyone think the Patriots and the 49ers could trade again? Some of the players the Pats have been bringing in lately are predicted as late first rounders.

I'd be real surprised if the Pats traded that far down. They have a rare chance to draft a high quality prospect and I don't see them passing on it. IMO if they don't use their #7 pick they'll end up somewhere in the 4-15 range. If they're totally sold on a Gholston or Chris Long and they're available at the #4/#5 area I could see the Pats dealing up. On the flipside if their target is a Derick Harvey, Branden Albert or Keith Rivers a trade down may make sense. The other thing to keep in mind is the value of the #7 pick. I think a lot depends on who falls to that pick and who has their eye on that player. Guys like Ryan, McFadden or Ellis will be very desirable to some teams drafting behind the Pats but right now all three could be gone or on the board when the #7 pick comes along. Due to that I think the #7 pick is a moving target valuewise and the true value of that pick won't be known until the Pats are on the clock.As for the loss of the other pick. That's a huge blow. If the Pats had that pick they would be in an unbelievable position to do about 1,000 things on draft day. Unfortunately that's a closed book and it is what it is.

 

[Bri]

Glad to see the Hobson signing.

 

[nerangers]

Was working on my mock draft...and the 31st pick forfeited by the Pats. At that pick the Pats could have taken a player like LB Dan Connor. For those that felt it was no big deal for the Patriots to lose that pick, it was. Without trading the pick, I went CB at the position. I still think they will try to trade back with the Saints or the Broncos (10-12 range).Anyone think the Patriots and the 49ers could trade again? Some of the players the Pats have been bringing in lately are predicted as late first rounders.

I'd be real surprised if the Pats traded that far down. They have a rare chance to draft a high quality prospect and I don't see them passing on it. IMO if they don't use their #7 pick they'll end up somewhere in the 4-15 range. If they're totally sold on a Gholston or Chris Long and they're available at the #4/#5 area I could see the Pats dealing up. On the flipside if their target is a Derick Harvey, Branden Albert or Keith Rivers a trade down may make sense. The other thing to keep in mind is the value of the #7 pick. I think a lot depends on who falls to that pick and who has their eye on that player. Guys like Ryan, McFadden or Ellis will be very desirable to some teams drafting behind the Pats but right now all three could be gone or on the board when the #7 pick comes along. Due to that I think the #7 pick is a moving target valuewise and the true value of that pick won't be known until the Pats are on the clock.As for the loss of the other pick. That's a huge blow. If the Pats had that pick they would be in an unbelievable position to do about 1,000 things on draft day. Unfortunately that's a closed book and it is what it is.

Good Info Boston...This is who I am thinking will be gone by the time the Pats Pick at #7 (no trades mind you): Jake Long, OT, Michigan Chris Long, DE/OLB, VirginiaGlenn Dorsey, DT, LSU Darren McFadden, RB, ArkansasMatt Ryan, QB, Boston CollegeVernon Gholston, DE, Ohio StateBased on that, I think the Pats could work out a trade with either the Saints or the Broncos. I think either team might want to move up for Sedrick Ellis, DT, USC.At 10 - 12, I think the Pats could still get a player like Dominique Rodgers-Cromartie, CB, TSU or Keith Rivers, OLB, USC The reason I mentioned the 49ers is because we have traded with them in the past, and I think the Patriots have met with Antoine Cason, CB, Arizona twice already. He has been projected to go right around the end of the first round.

 

[David Yudkin]

The reason I mentioned the 49ers is because we have traded with them in the past, and I think the Patriots have met with Antoine Cason, CB, Arizona twice already. He has been projected to go right around the end of the first round.

I might think the 49ers could be gun shy, seeing that the Pats parlayed that trade to the #7 pick this year and Randy Moss.As outlined in several spots by now, many feel that there are 7 blue chip prospects this year that are a cut above the rest of the back. No matter what, one of them will have to fall to NE and they will have potential suitors no matter who it is.I firmly believe that NE would rather NOT have the #7 pick, as their two greatest areas of need (LB and DB) likely will not have a great option at that spot. And certainly they will not want to pay that much money to an unproven rookie.If they truly WANTED to spend a fortune on a CB, they could have taken the money that would have gone to that early pick and given it to Samuel. They obviously didn't do that, so I have a hard time thinking they will give a lot of money to a guy coming out of college.We also know that Pioli and BB are not big fans of investing heavily in the draft at LB and they prefer to either groom lower round picks, sign bigger name free agent LBers, or scoop up retreads from other teams. That also makes me question whether they would take a LB that early (especially if they have to convert someone to LB).I would think that NE would consider trading down in the first (and I think ANYWHERE would suit them) for a package of picks involving a first rounder this year, a second round pick (this year or next year) and a 3rd or a 4th (again this year or next year) depending upon how early or late the picks were in each round.IMO, bottom line they don't want to spend the money to sign someone at #7, as it potentially would distort the pay structure of the team (others may not be happy that someone sitting on the bench in learning could be getting paid 10 times what a starter might be making).If they do keep the pick, I know the trendy pick is to say they take DL help, but at this stage I don't think that really helps their weaker areas (unless it's a DE that can also play LB). But I think the few guys that would still be left could be had in the teens or early 20s, so taking someone that early may not make much sense.

 

[nerangers]

I would rather see him retire than play for another team...maybe he can become a WR coach.

NFL | T. Brown on whether he will retire

Tue, 8 Apr 2008 16:47:28 -0700

Anthony Hanshew, of The Herald-Dispatch, reports unrestricted free-agent WR Troy Brown (Patriots) is considering retiring after 15 NFL seasons. "I haven't come to an answer to that question yet," Brown said. "I'm not in a hurry to make any decisions. We'll just see what happens in the next few weeks, months, whatever it takes to make up my mind."

 

[Workhorse]

There are rumblings (on NESN among other other places) that the Patriots could possibly move UP in the draft. That actually makes a bit of sense to me. If they are going to be stuck at #7 with that slotted contract, why not try to trade into the top 3-4 and get more bang for more buck. For example, if Chris Long is available at #3 overall, I wouldn't be shocked to see the Pats swing a deal with the Falcons. Think about it: If Atlanta has their eye on Matt Ryan, he very well could be available at the #7 and they need help everywhere. Extra picks help them more than the Pats.

 

[nerangers]

Was working on my mock draft...and the 31st pick forfeited by the Pats. At that pick the Pats could have taken a player like LB Dan Connor. For those that felt it was no big deal for the Patriots to lose that pick, it was. Without trading the pick, I went CB at the position. I still think they will try to trade back with the Saints or the Broncos (10-12 range).Anyone think the Patriots and the 49ers could trade again? Some of the players the Pats have been bringing in lately are predicted as late first rounders.

I'd be real surprised if the Pats traded that far down. They have a rare chance to draft a high quality prospect and I don't see them passing on it. IMO if they don't use their #7 pick they'll end up somewhere in the 4-15 range. If they're totally sold on a Gholston or Chris Long and they're available at the #4/#5 area I could see the Pats dealing up. On the flipside if their target is a Derick Harvey, Branden Albert or Keith Rivers a trade down may make sense. The other thing to keep in mind is the value of the #7 pick. I think a lot depends on who falls to that pick and who has their eye on that player. Guys like Ryan, McFadden or Ellis will be very desirable to some teams drafting behind the Pats but right now all three could be gone or on the board when the #7 pick comes along. Due to that I think the #7 pick is a moving target valuewise and the true value of that pick won't be known until the Pats are on the clock.As for the loss of the other pick. That's a huge blow. If the Pats had that pick they would be in an unbelievable position to do about 1,000 things on draft day. Unfortunately that's a closed book and it is what it is.

Good Info Boston...This is who I am thinking will be gone by the time the Pats Pick at #7 (no trades mind you): Jake Long, OT, Michigan Chris Long, DE/OLB, VirginiaGlenn Dorsey, DT, LSU Darren McFadden, RB, ArkansasMatt Ryan, QB, Boston CollegeVernon Gholston, DE, Ohio StateBased on that, I think the Pats could work out a trade with either the Saints or the Broncos. I think either team might want to move up for Sedrick Ellis, DT, USC.At 10 - 12, I think the Pats could still get a player like Dominique Rodgers-Cromartie, CB, TSU or Keith Rivers, OLB, USC The reason I mentioned the 49ers is because we have traded with them in the past, and I think the Patriots have met with Antoine Cason, CB, Arizona twice already. He has been projected to go right around the end of the first round.

I been thinking that the Pats and Saints would be good trading partners...heard on Sirius today that the Saints cancelled their visit with Sedrick Ellis. Thinking the Patriots will need to find another trading partner.

 

[Bri]

Josh Johnson threw 43 Touchdowns and 1 interception last year. That's a phenomenal ratio. My problem with most young QBs is their lack of accuracy or poor decision making and wow if that ratio doesn't seem almost too good to be true. I am so very curious what the best coach in football could do with that.

The Pats don't need a 4th QB. I don't know that he'd ever play. Drafting him would probably never happen. However, I'm curious if other Pats fans have ever thought similarly about a player playing for the best coach in football?

 

[nerangers]

Josh Johnson threw 43 Touchdowns and 1 interception last year. That's a phenomenal ratio. My problem with most young QBs is their lack of accuracy or poor decision making and wow if that ratio doesn't seem almost too good to be true. I am so very curious what the best coach in football could do with that.

The Pats don't need a 4th QB. I don't know that he'd ever play. Drafting him would probably never happen. However, I'm curious if other Pats fans have ever thought similarly about a player playing for the best coach in football?

Nice call Bri...just checking out his BioStrengths:

Good height with the frame to get bigger...Excellent athleticism and speed...Very accurate with good touch and timing...Arm strength is adequate...Solid throwing mechanics with a quick release...Can buy time in the pocket and is a threat to run when necessary...Smart with a good football IQ....Was extraordinarily productive and dominant at his level...Confident...Tough...A good leader with top intangibles.

Weaknesses:

Did not play against top competition and will be making a big leap...Needs to bulk up...Tends to gun everything and he has to learn to take something off of certain throws..Needs some coaching when it comes to footwork and fundamentals...May take a while to digest a NFL playbook and adjust to those complex pro defenses.



Notes:

He played at a non-scholarship, Division I-AA program in college...Was coached by former NFL quarterback and current Stanford Head Coach Jim Harbaugh...Named MVP of the East / West Shrine Game...An intriguing developmental prospect who has the tools, both physically and mentally, to get the job done at the next level.

Career Statistics

Year GP Comp Att Yds Comp % TD INT

2004 8 12 22 135 54.5% 0 1

2005 12 260 371 3,256 70.1% 36 8

2006 12 246 371 3,320 66.3% 34 5

2007 10 206 301 2,988 68.4% 43 1

Totals 42 724 1,065 9,699 68.0% 113 15

 

[Boston]

Rivers was in for a visit. He's a guy I'm intrigued by. I think he could have a chance to be a Roman Phifer type of LB for the Pats. He's a stud athlete and reports on his character seem to be very positive. Also, there's a list of who the Pats have had in for a visit. They're allowed 30 visits and have had 17 so far...I don't think it's a fluke that 16/17 are defensive players (McFadden is the lone non-defender). I'm really hoping the Pats add a nice jolt of young and athletic defenders to their roster. A big haul on the defensive side of things in this draft will go a long way towards making sure the Pats remain a well-balanced team.

Rivers writes on visit to Pats

Link|Comments (1) Posted by Mike Reiss, Globe Staff April 12, 2008 08:59 PM

USC linebacker Keith Rivers shares his thoughts on his pre-draft visit to the Patriots in his yardbarker blog.

"You could feel the winning environment right when you walk in," Rivers writes. "They pay attention to every detail. It was awesome because you see how much they prepare and what goes into having an amazing season as they did."

Rivers, a projected first-round pick who would play inside linebacker in the Patriots' 3-4 scheme, noted that he also visited with the Lions.

Covering the corners

Link|Comments (2) Posted by Christopher L. Gasper, Globe Staff April 12, 2008 06:22 PM

The Patriots are covering their bases when it comes to the corner prospects in this month's draft.

Corner is an obvious area of need with the departures of Asante Samuel and Randall Gay and remains so despite the additions of Lewis Sanders, Jason Webster and Fernando Bryant. The latest name to enter the mix among corner prospects the Patriots could potentially draft is Colorado's Terrence Wheatley.

As first reported by Albert Breer of the Dallas Morning News, the Patriots brought the 5-10, 187-pound Wheatley in for a visit this week and had previously worked him out privately. Wheatley's visit coincided with that of Arizona cornerback Antoine Cason.

Wheatley is a burner -- he clocked a 4.37 40-yard dash time at the combine -- but has a history of wrist trouble. He has had at least three surgeries on his right wrist. It's likely that taking another look at the wrist was one of the reasons the Patriots brought Wheatley to town.

Wheatley is one of 17 prospects that have been confirmed to have visited the Patriots, according to league sources or media reports. Teams are allowed up to 30 in-house visits.

The list:

DE/LB Cliff Avril (Purdue)

CB Antoine Cason (Arizona)

DT Glenn Dorsey (LSU)

DE/OLB Vernon Gholston (Ohio State)

DE/LB Quentin Groves (Auburn)

DE/LB Jason Jones (Eastern Michigan)

CB Patrick Lee (Auburn)

LB Curtis Lofton (Oklahoma)

LB Jerod Mayo (Tennessee)

RB Darren McFadden (Arkansas)

CB Leodis McKelvin (Troy)

LB Keith Rivers (USC)

DE/LB Darrell Robertson (Georgia Tech)

CB Dominique Rodgers-Cromartie (Tennessee State)

CB Aqib Talib (Kansas)

CB Terrell Thomas (USC)

CB Terrence Wheatley (Colorado)

 

[Cookiemonster]

Rivers was in for a visit. He's a guy I'm intrigued by. I think he could have a chance to be a Roman Phifer type of LB for the Pats. He's a stud athlete and reports on his character seem to be very positive. Also, there's a list of who the Pats have had in for a visit. They're allowed 30 visits and have had 17 so far...I don't think it's a fluke that 16/17 are defensive players (McFadden is the lone non-defender). I'm really hoping the Pats add a nice jolt of young and athletic defenders to their roster. A big haul on the defensive side of things in this draft will go a long way towards making sure the Pats remain a well-balanced team.Rivers writes on visit to PatsLink|Comments (1) Posted by Mike Reiss, Globe Staff April 12, 2008 08:59 PM USC linebacker Keith Rivers shares his thoughts on his pre-draft visit to the Patriots in his yardbarker blog."You could feel the winning environment right when you walk in," Rivers writes. "They pay attention to every detail. It was awesome because you see how much they prepare and what goes into having an amazing season as they did."Rivers, a projected first-round pick who would play inside linebacker in the Patriots' 3-4 scheme, noted that he also visited with the Lions.Covering the cornersLink|Comments (2) Posted by Christopher L. Gasper, Globe Staff April 12, 2008 06:22 PM The Patriots are covering their bases when it comes to the corner prospects in this month's draft. Corner is an obvious area of need with the departures of Asante Samuel and Randall Gay and remains so despite the additions of Lewis Sanders, Jason Webster and Fernando Bryant. The latest name to enter the mix among corner prospects the Patriots could potentially draft is Colorado's Terrence Wheatley. As first reported by Albert Breer of the Dallas Morning News, the Patriots brought the 5-10, 187-pound Wheatley in for a visit this week and had previously worked him out privately. Wheatley's visit coincided with that of Arizona cornerback Antoine Cason. Wheatley is a burner -- he clocked a 4.37 40-yard dash time at the combine -- but has a history of wrist trouble. He has had at least three surgeries on his right wrist. It's likely that taking another look at the wrist was one of the reasons the Patriots brought Wheatley to town. Wheatley is one of 17 prospects that have been confirmed to have visited the Patriots, according to league sources or media reports. Teams are allowed up to 30 in-house visits.The listE/LB Cliff Avril (Purdue)CB Antoine Cason (Arizona)DT Glenn Dorsey (LSU)DE/OLB Vernon Gholston (Ohio State)DE/LB Quentin Groves (Auburn)DE/LB Jason Jones (Eastern Michigan)CB Patrick Lee (Auburn)LB Curtis Lofton (Oklahoma)LB Jerod Mayo (Tennessee)RB Darren McFadden (Arkansas)CB Leodis McKelvin (Troy)LB Keith Rivers (USC)DE/LB Darrell Robertson (Georgia Tech)CB Dominique Rodgers-Cromartie (Tennessee State)CB Aqib Talib (Kansas)CB Terrell Thomas (USC)CB Terrence Wheatley (Colorado)

judging by that list, I'd say a trade down may already be in the works. I'm doubting all the Dallas trade up for McFadden bull, but quite a few of those invitees are right about the 'Boys' draft spots.

 

[Boston]

Rivers was in for a visit. He's a guy I'm intrigued by. I think he could have a chance to be a Roman Phifer type of LB for the Pats. He's a stud athlete and reports on his character seem to be very positive. Also, there's a list of who the Pats have had in for a visit. They're allowed 30 visits and have had 17 so far...I don't think it's a fluke that 16/17 are defensive players (McFadden is the lone non-defender). I'm really hoping the Pats add a nice jolt of young and athletic defenders to their roster. A big haul on the defensive side of things in this draft will go a long way towards making sure the Pats remain a well-balanced team.Rivers writes on visit to PatsLink|Comments (1) Posted by Mike Reiss, Globe Staff April 12, 2008 08:59 PM USC linebacker Keith Rivers shares his thoughts on his pre-draft visit to the Patriots in his yardbarker blog."You could feel the winning environment right when you walk in," Rivers writes. "They pay attention to every detail. It was awesome because you see how much they prepare and what goes into having an amazing season as they did."Rivers, a projected first-round pick who would play inside linebacker in the Patriots' 3-4 scheme, noted that he also visited with the Lions.Covering the cornersLink|Comments (2) Posted by Christopher L. Gasper, Globe Staff April 12, 2008 06:22 PM The Patriots are covering their bases when it comes to the corner prospects in this month's draft. Corner is an obvious area of need with the departures of Asante Samuel and Randall Gay and remains so despite the additions of Lewis Sanders, Jason Webster and Fernando Bryant. The latest name to enter the mix among corner prospects the Patriots could potentially draft is Colorado's Terrence Wheatley. As first reported by Albert Breer of the Dallas Morning News, the Patriots brought the 5-10, 187-pound Wheatley in for a visit this week and had previously worked him out privately. Wheatley's visit coincided with that of Arizona cornerback Antoine Cason. Wheatley is a burner -- he clocked a 4.37 40-yard dash time at the combine -- but has a history of wrist trouble. He has had at least three surgeries on his right wrist. It's likely that taking another look at the wrist was one of the reasons the Patriots brought Wheatley to town. Wheatley is one of 17 prospects that have been confirmed to have visited the Patriots, according to league sources or media reports. Teams are allowed up to 30 in-house visits.The listE/LB Cliff Avril (Purdue)CB Antoine Cason (Arizona)DT Glenn Dorsey (LSU)DE/OLB Vernon Gholston (Ohio State)DE/LB Quentin Groves (Auburn)DE/LB Jason Jones (Eastern Michigan)CB Patrick Lee (Auburn)LB Curtis Lofton (Oklahoma)LB Jerod Mayo (Tennessee)RB Darren McFadden (Arkansas)CB Leodis McKelvin (Troy)LB Keith Rivers (USC)DE/LB Darrell Robertson (Georgia Tech)CB Dominique Rodgers-Cromartie (Tennessee State)CB Aqib Talib (Kansas)CB Terrell Thomas (USC)CB Terrence Wheatley (Colorado)

judging by that list, I'd say a trade down may already be in the works. I'm doubting all the Dallas trade up for McFadden bull, but quite a few of those invitees are right about the 'Boys' draft spots.

Actually I think there's a little bit of everything. Gholston and Dorsey are guys that they're probably looking at at #7 should one fall or even in a trade up situation. Rivers and McKlevin could possibly be #7 selections or a pick if they only traded down a few slots. Than there are guys that could be had at different spots in the first round as well as later on in the draft. It looks like a list that's covering all the bases...with a very heavy emphasis on defensive (as it should be).

 

[Workhorse]

With the Patriots, you can't judge their motives at all by who they bring in for a visit. They bring in players in order to refine their draft board grades. There have been many draft picks in the Belichick/Pioli era who never came to Foxborough at all.

Don't read anything into these visits. Seriously.

 

[Bri]

Actually I think there's a little bit of everything. Gholston and Dorsey are guys that they're probably looking at at #7 should one fall or even in a trade up situation.

I wonder how they think of Dorsey. They have a DL stacked with previous picks with loads of talent so there's no need. BTW I don't want them to trade down.I hope they use their #7 or trade up because I don't foresee any near future occasion to get a top top prospect. If they love one of the Longs or Dorsey or whomever, I hope they trade to get that guy. I'm so very excited for that first pick.

 

[bostonfred]

The listE/LB Cliff Avril (Purdue)CB Antoine Cason (Arizona)DT Glenn Dorsey (LSU)DE/OLB Vernon Gholston (Ohio State)DE/LB Quentin Groves (Auburn)DE/LB Jason Jones (Eastern Michigan)CB Patrick Lee (Auburn)LB Curtis Lofton (Oklahoma)LB Jerod Mayo (Tennessee)RB Darren McFadden (Arkansas)CB Leodis McKelvin (Troy)LB Keith Rivers (USC)DE/LB Darrell Robertson (Georgia Tech)CB Dominique Rodgers-Cromartie (Tennessee State)CB Aqib Talib (Kansas)CB Terrell Thomas (USC)CB Terrence Wheatley (Colorado)

judging by that list, I'd say a trade down may already be in the works. I'm doubting all the Dallas trade up for McFadden bull, but quite a few of those invitees are right about the 'Boys' draft spots.

Judging by this list, I'd say they're considering taking some defensive players in the draft.

 

[Boston]

...and out of leftfield comes Marcus Pollard. His best days are behind him but he's not coming here to be a star. My guess is the Pats also draft a TE (probably with solid blocking skills) and they fight it out for the #3 role which actually gets a decent amount of playing time in the Patriot system.

http://www.boston.com/sports/football/patriots/reiss_pieces/

 

[twitch]

...and out of leftfield comes Marcus Pollard. His best days are behind him but he's not coming here to be a star. My guess is the Pats also draft a TE (probably with solid blocking skills) and they fight it out for the #3 role which actually gets a decent amount of playing time in the Patriot system.

http://www.boston.com/sports/football/patriots/reiss_pieces/

I like the Pollard signing. He's a veteran who'll serve a role, but he's always seemed to have good hands. Probably a little more mobile/versatile than Kyle Brady was at this point in their careers. That guy just couldnt get any seperation whatsoever, and got hurt trying to basically play as a 6th Olineman primarily on running plays. Brady had 9 catches. Just not alot of production from a TE2 role. Hopefully Thomas is healthy and able to go, and we wont need to lean on Pollard for much if anything at all. Its high time we get some high level production out of these TEs we always seem to take so much pride in and draft in the high rounds. God, can you imagine if Watson and Thomas BOTH actually played up to potential? I dream of that scenario. But Pollard is a nice veteran insurance policy. I like the fit right now. And I havent really seen much from this class of TEs coming in. I can see us passing on a TE altogether in this draft, but do admit that would be a bit of a shock.

 

[Mike Shanahan Fan]

Josh Johnson threw 43 Touchdowns and 1 interception last year. That's a phenomenal ratio. My problem with most young QBs is their lack of accuracy or poor decision making and wow if that ratio doesn't seem almost too good to be true. I am so very curious what the best coach in football could do with that.The Pats don't need a 4th QB. I don't know that he'd ever play. Drafting him would probably never happen. However, I'm curious if other Pats fans have ever thought similarly about a player playing for the best coach in football?

See, that's amazing! Even if he throws FIVE TIMES AS MANY INterceptions in the NFL as he did in collge, and 13 fewerTDs, he's an MVP!!!

 

[Workhorse]

Rumor has it that the Pats are closing in on signing Ty Law.

Paging Yudkin...

 

[David Yudkin]

Rumor has it that the Pats are closing in on signing Ty Law.Paging Yudkin...

Last I heard as of yesterday was that Law was still exploring his options and was prepared to head into training camp still looking for a new home rather than take a bargain basement deal. I'll see what I can find out, but I have not heard anything that he was back in the mix with NE.Where did you see/hear that he was close to signing with the Pats?

 

[Workhorse]

Rumor has it that the Pats are closing in on signing Ty Law.Paging Yudkin...

Last I heard as of yesterday was that Law was still exploring his options and was prepared to head into training camp still looking for a new home rather than take a bargain basement deal. I'll see what I can find out, but I have not heard anything that he was back in the mix with NE.Where did you see/hear that he was close to signing with the Pats?

I believe it was reported on the local Fox TV affiliate in Boston last night that Law was leaning towards the Pats and a deal was close. Butch Stearns, I believe.

 

[Boston]

Rumor has it that the Pats are closing in on signing Ty Law.Paging Yudkin...

Last I heard as of yesterday was that Law was still exploring his options and was prepared to head into training camp still looking for a new home rather than take a bargain basement deal. I'll see what I can find out, but I have not heard anything that he was back in the mix with NE.Where did you see/hear that he was close to signing with the Pats?

No one values the dollar more than Ty Law. I don't see him signing with anyone until he knows he can't get a dollar more out on the open market.

 

[Pat Patriot]

I dont know how reliable he is but it is being reported that Butch Stearns is saying that Law is close to signing with the Pats.

 

[Clifton]

Kraft> sup?

Anyhow, What's the deal with Law. Why is he even on the market? What the hell is going on? I don't get it. I thought he just signed a large contract.

 

[David Yudkin]

Kraft> sup?Anyhow, What's the deal with Law. Why is he even on the market? What the hell is going on? I don't get it. I thought he just signed a large contract.

Law was cut by KC at the beginning of March. He's talked to the Dolphins, Pats, and Jets to date but remains unsigned.Following up from yesterday, Law apparently has spoken with NE again and from what I was told no signing is imminent (as was reported yesterday). I wouldn't rule it out some time in the future (even in the near future), but as of last night he apparently was still mulling his options.

 

[twitch]

Kraft> sup?Anyhow, What's the deal with Law. Why is he even on the market? What the hell is going on? I don't get it. I thought he just signed a large contract.

Law was cut by KC at the beginning of March. He's talked to the Dolphins, Pats, and Jets to date but remains unsigned.Following up from yesterday, Law apparently has spoken with NE again and from what I was told no signing is imminent (as was reported yesterday). I wouldn't rule it out some time in the future (even in the near future), but as of last night he apparently was still mulling his options.

Law's looking for some money that these 3 teams arent willing to pay him. Parcells isnt paying him. He's been unloading contracts. The Jets have been down the Ty Law, high-dollar road once. And theyve paid a bunch of guys a ton of money. Theyre not giving money to Law. And the Pats have already brought 2 vet corners in at near or close to vet minimum deals. Theyre not paying Law the dollars he's looking for. Reality must be setting in with him that his age is limiting his value right now. Law just needs to suck it up and sign with the Pats for whatever theyve offered him and finish out his career where it started. If he doesnt sign before the draft, and NE picks up more than 1 corner with potential, then I hope they both move in separate directions. Id predict that he doesnt get signed today or tomorrow by NE, he'll play elsewhere.

 

[SeniorVBDStudent]

[hijack] Why is Atlanta even allowed in the NBA playoffs? The Celtics are embarassing them.

[/hijack]

I'd like Law to sign, but he's gonna need to get off the schneid.

 

[David Yudkin]

Interesting concept in a Live Chat with Mike Reiss today, as he suggested who the Pats draft may be influenced by who the player's agent is.

 

[nerangers]

Interesting concept in a Live Chat with Mike Reiss today, as he suggested who the Pats draft may be influenced by who the player's agent is.

Wonder if he was listening to Sirius NFL Network last night...that was a discussion they were having. The opinion was that some teams might not select someone based on who is representing them, but the overall concensus was that it did not matter. Sometimes it might take longer to get a deal done, but the deals do get done.

 

[nerangers]

saw this seven round mock on boston.com

McSHAY'S SEVEN-ROUND MOCK: Todd McShay of Scouts Inc., takes the bold step of attempting to predict all seven rounds of the NFL Draft. Here is the link to McShay's extensive work (subscription required), and a list of the Patriots' eight picks:

1) LB Keith Rivers (USC)

2) CB Reggie Smith (Oklahoma)

3a) OT/OG Oniel Cousins (UTEP)

3b) OLB Bruce Davis (UCLA) - I find this one interesting...he did a great interview on Sirius.

4) OT Tony Hills (Texas)

5) TE Kellen Davis (Michigan State)

6) OG Robert Felton (Arkansas)

7) OLB Larry Grant (Ohio State)

 

[nerangers]

The Patriots traded the 7th overall pick and their fifth-round pick (164).

They receive the Saints' first-round pick (10) and the Saints' third-round pick (78th).

With the 10th pick:

Jerod Mayo

Inside Linebacker | Junior | Tennessee

Height: 6-11/4 | Weight: 242 | 40-Time: 4.54

Strengths:

Very athletic...Has excellent timed speed and quickness..Physical and plays bigger than he is...Has terrific range and does a great job in pursuit...Reliable tackler and will deliver the big hit...Smart with good awareness and instincts...Has a non-stop motor...Fluid & smooth in coverage...Versatile...Productive..Nice program pedigree.

Weaknesses:

Undersized and doesn't have either the ideal height or bulk that you look for..Has trouble taking on and shedding blockers...Needs to be protected up front...Just a marginal blitzer...Durability may be an issue...Probably not a good fit for everyone.

Notes:

The next in a long line of top Volunteer linebackers...Can project inside or outside depending on the defensive scheme and has experience at both...Best fit may be as a middle 'backer in a Cover 2 or on the weakside..Not a traditional thumper but he will prove awfully attractive to teams that are willing to sacrifice some size for speed...He will draw comparisons to Al Wilson and those are reasonably accurate.

from nfldraftcountdown.com

 

[ROCKET]

I like the fact we finally have some youth at the LB spot . I just hope we take the second/3rds and move up for another impact player on day one.

 

[twitch]

Pretty psyched that we have some young, fast playmaking at LB. Not at all the guy I expected to see us grab in that spot, so things are pretty much on schedule. But we've upgraded one spot. Lets see which corners are around later and if we move up to get someone like Antoine Cason or Brandon Flowers.

 

[Pat Patriot]

I just realized that Groves is still there. We need to trade up and get him. #62 plus #94 should get us to the 50's. Please lets do it.

 

[Ned]

I just realized that Groves is still there. We need to trade up and get him. #62 plus #94 should get us to the 50's. Please lets do it.

ooops

 

[David Yudkin]

I'm guessing Martellus Bennett in a few picks here . . .

 

[Boston]

I'm surprised the Pats didn't trade up in the second. After they got a third #3 I really thought they'd target someone earlier in the second. It will be real interesting to see what they do with their next four picks...three are in the next 15 picks.

 

[Ned]

I'm guessing Martellus Bennett in a few picks here . . .

wow thats 2 stolen now....

 

[David Yudkin]

I'm guessing Martellus Bennett in a few picks here . . .

. . . unless the only team left (DAL) takes him.